Visitors to the Maine woods in the early twentieth century often recorded their adventures in private diaries or journals and in photographs. Their remembrances of canoeing, camping, hunting and fishing helped equate Maine with wilderness.

Eleven communities comprise the Western Foothills Region, all interconnected yet each with its own unique, rich history.
This site is the beginning of the towns sharing their stories with the world, each other, and the next generation. Working closely with local schools, six historical societies came together to help the next generation understand the heritage of their area.
We invite you to explore our exhibits that celebrate the individuals and events that formed our communities.

An extensive history of a small central Maine town as compiled by team members from Guilford Historical Society and Piscataquis Community Middle School, with input from Guilford Memorial Library, Guilford Economic Development Board, and the Guilford’s town office. Manufacturing, festive events, historic buildings, notable veterans, and education, are covered in depth.

The history of a town bordered by the Kennebec and Sandy Rivers as depicted by students from Skowhegan Area Middle School working in close proximity with members of the Skowhegan Historical Society. Exhibits include the Skowhegan Island, farming, log drives, Benedict Arnold’s March, early settlement, Bloomfield Academy, Lakewood Theater, and the Abenakis.